Question
I decided to start my very first garden this year, I'm a complete novice.  I did pleny of research and planning but I now realize no amount of research prepares you for the reality of the experience.  I am off to a bad start.  I bought some lettuce plants at a local garden greenery and transplanted them last week... however, their condition has slowly deteriorated and they are wilted, the bottom leaves are shriveled and brown and the top leaves are still green but starting to wilt and laying over on the soil.  I contacted the place I got them from and was told this indicates overwatering.  However, I keep getting contradictory information on how much to water them and how often.  I was first told to water a little every day, and then was told to water every other day (or 2-3 times a week) for about 15 minutes. They told me to just invest in a sprinkler, but when I called about wilting they told me that the leaves themselves shouldn't get wet and to use a watering can and soak the soil.  UGH!  The information online is just as contradictory.  I live in NC if that makes any difference.  Any advice?

Answer
Jessica, let me start by saying that gardening is not an exact science. There is no exact amount of water that is correct. It varies according to the type of soil you have and the weather conditions. The general rule of thumb is 2" of water per week. Once the soil dries 3" below the soil level, it is time to water.

Most soils east of the Mississippi have soils that are primarily clay. These soils tend to retain water much longer than a sandy or loamy soil. As a result, the roots become saturated and often become water-logged. As a result, the plants cannot take in nutrients and oxygen. The results are always fatal.

The best solution is to amend your soil with organic material. These amendments include compost, peat moss, shredded leaves, aged manure, and dried grass clippings. By building up your soil to a depth of 8" or more, the soil will be more loamy, drain much better, and the organic soil will provide a constant source of nutrients throughout the growing season.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike